Criminal Case Process

In addition to the Victim's Rights described here, victims of crime are entitled to information regarding what to expect from the criminal justice system, translator services when needed, transportation and separate waiting areas. 

The State Attorney's Office is staffed with Victim Witness Counselors and trial Coordinators who are ready to provide the following:
  • Emotional support to victims and witnesses of crime;
  • Information concerning stages in the criminal or juvenile justice process, and the role of the victim
  • Courtroom orientation and accompaniment
  • Crisis intervention services and grief support
  • Referrals to social service agencies
  • Assistance with filing Crime Victim's Compensation

Stages in the Criminal Case Process
Criminal cases generally follow the sequence listed below. However, no two cases are alike, and variations do occur in some instances.
  • After the crime, a police investigation occurs, and possibly an arrest.
  • A bond hearing/jail arraignment and other hearings may occur; if so, this must occur within 24 hours of the arrest.
  • Depositions may be followed by a trial and sentencing.
  • An appeal may occur after the trial and sentencing.
  • Finally, release from a correctional or detention center occurs.
Since a bond hearing occurs within 24 hours after the arrest, advanced individual notice is not possible. Remember, you have the right to appear at these hearings. If you wish to attend, note the following: 
  • All bond hearings and jail arraignments, except in misdemeanor domestic violence cases, are held in Courtroom 5-5
  • Bond hearings for misdemeanor domestic violence cases only are heard in Courtroom 2A at 1:30 p.m., Monday - Friday.
  • On weekends and holidays, all bond hearings are heard at the Richard E. Gerstein location
  • For particular locations and time of the bond hearings in your case, you can call VAN or call the defendant information line